Keith Richards' Poor Health Delays Stones' 50th Bday Tour

Despite the online rumor mill working overtime, it turns out that The Rolling Stones will NOT be touring in 2012 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their formation. The reason? Keith Richards' poor health, sources say. But because they're the Rolling Stones and they can warp time, they're putting their anniversary tour off 'til next year. Why not, you know?

Rolling Stone reports that Richards' health won't allow an exhaustive world tour, so instead of traveling, the band plans to launch multi-date residencies in major cities, like Prince recently did in Los Angeles and New York City. The band have requested tour proposals from promoters AEG, Live Nation and longtime Stones promoter Michael Cohl.

Also, there's the possibility that original bassist Bill Wyman, who left the group in 1992, will reunite with the Stones for the 50th anniversary trek: "We're back in touch, which is great, because I hadn't really spoken to him for years," says Richards. "I think he's up for it. We talked about it. I'll let you know when I can."

Oh, and it turns out that 2013 will be the band's real 50th anniversary, according to Richards. "The Stones always really considered '63 to be 50 years, because Charlie [Watts] didn't actually join until January," Richards explains. "We look upon 2012 as sort of the year of conception, but the birth is next year."

Over the next year the Stones will keep busy with a new documentary project, which traces the complete history of the band, and with studio sessions. "We’ll just get the boys back together again then and maybe cut a side," Richards says. "I’ve got plenty in the locker here, but it’s not on tape."

Excited to see the Stones live in 2013? Jam out to two of my favorite Stones tracks, "Rocks Off" and "Beast of Burden," then tell us below.

Most Popular

Photo of the day

There’s no stopping BTS. The K-pop boy band that continues to steal our hearts is now starring in their own PUMA campaign. Shared on Instagram, the athletic apparel brand revealed that a #PUMAxBTS collection is in the works and will be globally available this summer.